Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas House Bill HB1626

Introduced
3/14/23  
Refer
3/14/23  
Report Pass
3/29/23  
Engrossed
3/30/23  
Refer
3/31/23  
Report Pass
4/5/23  
Enrolled
4/7/23  
Chaptered
4/11/23  

Caption

Concerning The Self-insured Fidelity Bond Program; To Modify The Self-insured Fidelity Bond Program For Certain Participating Governmental Entities; And To Declare An Emergency.

Impact

The quick passage of HB1626 as an emergency measure indicates the urgency recognized by the General Assembly regarding the bond program guidelines. By affirming that governmental entities involved in the Self-Insured Fidelity Bond Program meet their liability prerequisites, the bill intends to protect these entities and the public from possible acts of dishonesty among their officials. This clarification is expected to enhance trust in public institutions and provide a clearer legal framework regarding fidelity bonds.

Summary

House Bill 1626 pertains to modifications in the Self-Insured Fidelity Bond Program within Arkansas. The bill seeks to clarify the bond requirements for participating governmental entities, ensuring these entities are considered to have satisfied any other statutory bond obligations they might hold under state law. This change is aimed at addressing concerns of potential fraud, theft, and malfeasance by public employees and officials, which could occur due to previous statutory inconsistencies regarding bond coverage.

Sentiment

The sentiment among legislators during discussions of HB1626 appeared to be overwhelmingly supportive, reflecting a consensus on the necessity to strengthen existing frameworks to prevent fraud in government operations. Passing the bill unanimously demonstrates a shared commitment to improving the accountability and security of public funds. The lack of opposition signals a strong preference for enhanced protections against malfeasance.

Contention

Given that the bill is seen as necessary for preserving public integrity, potential points of contention might arise regarding the implications of emergency declarations such as this one. Critics could argue that labeling legislation as emergency measures may bypass more thorough legislative scrutiny and public input. However, in this particular case, the sentiment around HB1626 suggests minimal opposition, focusing instead on its proposed benefits for governmental integrity and the necessity for immediate action.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR SB79

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Provide For The Regulation Of Digital Asset Mining Businesses; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB78

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB23

An Act For The Department Of Commerce - State Insurance Department Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SR17

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HR1020

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HB1097

To Amend The Revenue Stabilization Law; To Create Funds, To Repeal Funds, And To Make Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB80

To Amend The Revenue Stabilization Law; To Create Funds, To Repeal Funds, And To Make Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB77

To Amend The Uniform Classification And Compensation Act; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HB1039

An Act For The Office Of The Treasurer Of State - General Obligation Bonds Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1025

An Act For The Department Of Health - Tobacco Prevention And Cessation Programs Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

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